Do you day dream about getting ahead? Are you wondering how to achieve this? Whether getting ahead means a promotion at your current company or a move to another company at a higher level, here are some simple strategies to help you accelerate this dream.

5 Tips for Getting Ahead in Your Career:

1. Keep track of your accomplishments
Create a file to log your key accomplishments and milestones. This can be an electronic and/or paper folder. Put things in as they occur so you can pull them up when needed. Times to have these handy would be conversations with your boss or other influencers, for your performance review or for resumes and job interviews. Just writing them down helps you keep them top of mind for appropriate discussions. This also boosts your confidence.

2.  Talk about accomplishments
Sprinkle accomplishments in conversations at the right time and the right place. Include specifics and results. Statistics, such as, dollars saved or earned, sales increased by X are impressive. This can help in situations where you want to persuade, influence, or self promote. There is an art to this, so start observing how others do it tastefully and talk to your mentor or coach for suggestions.

3. Take credit
This is often hard for people. Some people won’t take credit for themselves but they will readily share credit with others. A good compromise is outlined by John Gray in his book, Mars and Venus in the Workplace. It’s called take credit, share credit and focus on results. Example, “I implemented a new approach, and now we have opened several branches to serve more people.”

4. Solve Problems
If you see a problem, bring recommended solutions or a plan of attack when you mention the problem. Go beyond identifying the problem. Get alignment on potential solutions and actions.

5. Seek Opportunities
Get involved in new projects, committees, or initiatives. You’ll stand out as someone with energy and enthusiasm. Document your involvement and results. Align with your boss as to what’s a good fit for you and the company.

If you need help strategizing on your “Get Ahead Plan”, contact me. Lois@LoisCarson.com